Mystery Audi R8 Spied at the Ring

A strange looking prototype based on the Audi R8 GT has been spied testing at the Nurburgring. But what is it?

Our trusted spy photographers have sent us in snaps of this odd-looking Audi R8 GT. At first glance it may look like a GT doing some test laps at the Nurburgring, but those with a keen eye will spot certain visual differences from the hardcore limited-edition GT model. These aren't in line with the recently facelifted R8 series however. Free of camo, the prototype clearly sports a vented front hood, finished in matte black as per the GT3 racecar, as well as an extended lip spoiler, larger canards on the front bumper and a bigger rear wing.

Possible explanations at what we're looking at range from Audi simply testing some new components for the next-gen R8 through preparing a facelift of the R8 GT to another special edition model. Given the candid nature of the testing, our money's on a facelift. Check out the photos and let us know what you think.